Which Massachusetts department is named as regulating the sale and use of pesticides? (DAR)

• A. Department of Agricultural Resources
• B. Department of Public Health
• C. Department of Conservation & Recreation
• D. Department of Transportation

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is identifying which agency regulates pesticides. In Massachusetts, that role belongs to the Department of Agricultural Resources. This department handles the sale and use of pesticides by licensing applicators and dealers, registering pesticide products, and enforcing labeling and safety requirements. Its purpose is to protect public health, water quality, and agricultural resources by ensuring pesticides are used properly and legally. Other departments focus on different areas—public health on health protections, conservation and recreation on land and water resources, and transportation on roads and transit—so they aren’t the ones charged with pesticide regulation.